Salvationist 2 January 2021

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1788 Price 70p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 2 January 2021

By the love that never ceased to hold me In a bond nor life nor death shall break, As thy presence and thy power enfold me, I would plead fresh covenant to make.

(SASB 634)

2

1

CONTENTS Preview Vision and Commitment Sunday

3

by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts

The Territorial Commander’s new year message 4 and 5 News

6 to 8

Prayer Matters

8

More rear-mirror views The Ayr revival

9

by General John Larsson (Retired)

News feature 10 and 11 Enabled members join together for online Christmas fellowship 2021 events calendar

12 and 13

On my bookshelf Helping me reflect on my faith

14

by Captain Megan Kervin

Interview Investing in justice

15

Ben Gilbert talks to Tribeni Gurung

Bible study 16 and 17 Living in God’s covenant

by Major Steve Dutfield

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Howard Webber

Viewpoint Are we good neighbours?

18

by Annmarie Batty

Thinkaloud 19 Wrestling with the Old Testament

by John Coutts

Reviews The Making of Captain Clinton

20

reviewed by Major Martin Whybrow

Thankful reviewed by Staff Songster Leader Dorothy Nancekievill

Adverts

21 and 23

Announcements

22 and 23

The Salvation Army and me

FRESH COVENANT TO MAKE THE mysterious Magi who made their way to Judea from the east weren’t exactly sure where they were headed, even with a star to guide them. So they stopped off in Jerusalem and asked: ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?’ (Matthew 2:2). Given that Herod already had the title ‘king of the Jews’, it perhaps wasn’t the wisest thing these wise men could have done. So, after finding Jesus, and ‘having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route’ (v12).

The King James Version says ‘they departed into their own country another way’. I once heard a preacher say that ‘another way’ could mean that, as well as taking another route, they went home as different people – they had another understanding, another allegiance and another goal. Although that isn’t what Matthew meant, it is possible that their encounter with Jesus did change them in some lasting way.

Every new year is an opportunity to find another way, and making resolutions is some people’s method of doing that. If you are one of those people, there are a few ideas in this week’s Salvationist.

In the first of a new series in which people introduce some of the books on their shelves, Captain Megan Kervin tells us about two writers and a devotional book that have had an impact on her. That might inspire you to read more books in the year ahead.

You could resolve to give financial support to an international development project.

We’ve featured a variety of these in recent issues, and this week Tribeni Gurung tells us about Army projects that promote gender justice.

With the Prayer Matters booklet unavailable, we are continuing to publish it as a weekly column. If you struggle to find time for daily devotions, how about resolving to read and reflect on it? You could also resolve to use our ‘Through the Week with Salvationist’ devotions and Bible studies. This week Major Steve Dutfield considers the significance of the promises we make, including new year’s resolutions and, more importantly, our covenant commitments.

The idea of covenant is at the heart of this year’s Vision and Commitment Sunday, explains Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts, and can be explored throughout January using resources for personal reflection, small groups and worship meetings.

In his new year message the Territorial Commander highlights the fact that our covenant with God is expressed by following Jesus and growing in our relationship with him. The TC calls for ‘a renewed passion for discipleship’ in 2021.

Resolutions and covenants have some similarities, but they are essentially different.

Resolutions are usually made with the aim of becoming better people, and willpower is required to keep them. There’s nothing wrong with that, but as Christians there is also another, better way. Our aim is not primarily self-improvement but to live in a relationship of love with God and respond in obedient faith to him. And we have resources beyond mere willpower. The verse on the front cover reminds us that we can make a ‘fresh covenant’ while enfolded in God’s presence and power – and it is his presence and power that help us keep our covenant long after any new year’s resolutions have been broken.

24

featuring Lynn Leach

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

2

Salvationist 2 January 2021

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

PREVIEW

Living in God’s covenant Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts introduces the theme for this year’’s Vision and Commitment Sund day (3 January))

A

T the beginning of 2021, as we greet each other with ‘Happy new year’, let this traditional greeting be accompanied by a fervent prayer from all of us, that in the coming year we will move forward into happier circumstances, beyond the coronavirus pandemic with all the restrictions and challenges we encountered so unexpectedly in 2020.

Going Forward Together – Living in God’s Covenant is the theme of Vision and Commitment Sunday. Territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill have recorded a meeting that will be shared online via YouTube.

Every effort has been made to enable corps to share this theme with people who may not have access to the internet. As the new year begins every one of us is invited to explore what it means to be in a covenant relationship with God, responding to his love and grace.

LIVING IN GOD’S COVENANT In the Bible we see God making covenants time and time again.

A covenant is not only a contract or promise. At its deepest and richest, it is saying, ‘All I am is given to you and all you are is willingly given to me.’ The ultimate exchange happened when Christ took all that we are to the cross and gave us eternal life. On a daily basis, we are invited to respond in faith and commitment to Christ and receive life in all its fullness.

The Vision and Commitment 2021 resources will help us consider what it means to be a covenanted people and live this out in our lives as individuals, in community and in every expression of The Salvation Army in our territory.

The Spiritual Life Development and Resource Hub teams have together commissioned a series of resources that enable us to unpack and explore the theme of living in God’s covenant.

The series includes four weeks of teaching material, discussion questions and worship ideas for use online, at socially distanced worship meetings, in small groups or for personal reflection.

Youth and children’s groups will be able to explore the same themes through January’s Cell and Explore It session outlines.

Corps leaders are encouraged to hold a covenant service towards the end of January, where everyone can renew their existing covenants or make a new covenant promise to God. Commitment cards have been printed and sent out.

Feedback from previous years has assured the team that many people keep a card as a reminder of a special moment when God spoke to them and as a prompt to live out their declared intention on that day.

Prayer Matters, the daily resource produced by the territorial prayer network, also follows the theme of Living in God’s Covenant from 1 January until 17 January. You may have observed that, as we are currently unable to mail out the usual booklet twice a year, Prayer Matters is being printed week by week in Salvationist. I encourage you to make use of this resource also. Each day briefly offers a basis for prayer, sometimes with a verse of Scripture or a guide for reflection or activity. Here is the thought for 3 January: ‘On this first Sunday of the new year, whether you are praying at home or able to gather with other people, the

territory’s theme for this season is Moving Forward Together – Living in God’s Covenant. May we each encounter the presence of God this day, praising and thanking him that he calls us into covenant relationship with him and with each other. Pray for those with whom you worship regularly. Perhaps you could send a message this week to one or two people to let them know they are in your prayers.’

A rich source of inspiration for me in exploring the theme of covenant personally has been the Salvation Army songbook. I conclude by quoting a song

by Charles Wesley, the shortest in the songbook. It refers to devoting ourselves to God. Lord, in the strength of grace, With a glad heart and free, Myself, my residue of days, I consecrate to thee.

Thy ransomed servant, I Restore to thee thy own, And from this moment live or die To serve my God alone.

(SASB 604) O Vision and Commitment resources are available at salvationarmy.org.uk/ vision-and-commitment LIEUT-COLONEL ROBERTS IS SECRETARY FOR SPIRITUAL LIFE DEVELOPMENT, THQ Salvationist 2 January 2021

3

THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER’S NEW YEAR MESSAGE

Renewing our passion for discipleship

4

Salvationist 2 January 2021

W

HEN I was young, I was encouraged to make a new year’s resolution every January. After years of abject failure in keeping them I finally made one that I am proud to say I have kept for nearly 50 years: ‘I will never again make a new year’s resolution!’

If we are honest, most of us will just be relieved that we have made it through 2020. No one needs me to remind them how different and challenging this past year has been. We are nowhere near clear of this dreadful virus, but at least we have the expectation of things coming under control, eventually, as the vaccine is rolled out and the test and trace processes are ramped up. Although many of us are under severe restrictions now, and likely will be in the near future, we are beginning to see what life might be like in the year ahead. There appears to be a light at the end of the tunnel and, for once in a very long while, it does not appear to be a train heading towards us.

I am immensely proud of the way The Salvation Army has adapted and continued to minister and work since March last year. It has been difficult and demanding. The staff in our residential homes, safe houses and Lifehouses have at times made immense sacrifices.

Corps officers, together with local leaders, soldiers, adherent members and friends, have in so many places achieved previously unthinkable levels of pastoral care and community engagement. Many corps have maintained their prayers and worship by innovative means – some by ensuring the congregation have printed worship, receive DVDs or benefit from online meetings. Simultaneously, we have had space to deepen our individual journeys of faith, having been released from what, in hindsight, were relentless programmes of activity. How we have marvelled that our ‘new’ ways of worship have been blessed by God, reaching thousands whom we never would have

I am immensely proud of the way The Salvation Army has adapted and continued to minister and work

contacted previously. In addition to corps and divisional events, significant territorial events have been shared online, such as Commissioning and the carol concert from the Royal Albert Hall, which has had in excess of 360,000 views.

To everyone who made all this happen, I am sincerely grateful. In that number I include those who have faithfully been praying for and encouraging the Army’s work and ministry.

But what now? Is there now a case for making new year’s resolutions?

For many months I have been saying that we should not think about ‘going back’. In other words, we must not fall into the trap that we will plan to go back to a world and a Salvation Army that was in existence this time a year ago.

There are some things that we need to leave behind. There are some things that we have gained in the past nine months that we must not let go of. We need to be constantly thinking about going forward.

We need to reimagine and re-envision, even though we might not know exactly what the future will look like. In every expression of The Salvation Army we must consider carefully what we need to let go and what we need to grasp hold of, if we are to be true to the calling of God upon this part of his Church. Having come this far, I believe we are at a critical point that demands our prayerful consideration.

We need this exercise of asking and waiting corporately, but we also need it individually.

I understand that while some of us may have been released from a sense of ‘being on duty’ and found new depths of spiritual life in these past months, others have struggled spiritually as they have been starved of fellowship at corps.

Consequently, some cannot wait to return to corps life, while others are seriously thinking, ‘It’s been OK. I quite like having Sundays at home!’

I understand that attending the meeting is not the be-all and end-all – meeting with Jesus is. But perhaps it is time for us to re-evaluate what should be going on when we gather together in corporate worship of Jesus Christ who is one with us, present and precious!

Some verses from Hebrews 10 could have been written for the start of 2021: ‘Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart’ (v22); ‘Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess’ (v23); ‘Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds’ (v24);

‘Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encourage one another’ (v25 New International Version 2001).

Vision and Commitment Sunday 2021 has the strap line ‘Going forward together – living in God’s covenant’. I sincerely believe that this theme is a gift to us as we consider how we can intentionally progress in these early days of the new year. Forward together with Christ, but forward together with one another – followers of Jesus, intentionally, individually and corporately growing deeper in him, inviting one another, encouraging one another, blessing one another.

What if there were to be greater intentionality about discipleship in our freshly reset programmes? What if discipleship were paramount, for us as individuals but also for us as an Army?

I do not know what this might look like in your context, but I do know for sure that the call to discipleship comes first, and service follows. General Albert Orsborn explained it like this: ‘First to know thee, then to serve thee’ (SASB 766).

May 2021 be marked with a renewed passion for discipleship across the Army that will glorify God and deepen our lives in him, empowering us for witness and service in the name of Jesus.

Now I am tempted to make a new year’s resolution – are you?

ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

O Commissioners Anthony

and Gill Cotterill will lead an online meeting for Vision and Commitment Sunday, available from 9am on 3 January at youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo Salvationist 2 January 2021

5

NEWS

CHURCH NEWS

Report highlights church-based assets ENGLAND MORE than 360 people in England were interviewed about the importance of the Church for a new report to assess churches’ social cohesion contribution on the front line. The Church and Social Cohesion in England, prepared by the think tank Theos, was the culmination of a major research project commissioned by the Free Churches Group, which includes The Salvation Army, and is both supportive and critical of churches’ efforts towards social cohesion in the past.

‘The toxicity of the Brexit debate, a summer of Black Lives Matter protests and the struggle to balance personal freedom with group responsibility throughout the Covid-19 pandemic have made clear how important social cohesion is,’ said Theos in an introduction to the report.

It concentrates on the range of church-based assets that are fostering positive cohesion away from the headlines. Moreover, it observes the Christian motivations behind this day-to-day community engagement.

It also offers practical recommendations for how churches and policymakers can maximise social cohesion in the community. ‘Churches are an important element of the nation’s social fabric, and the cohesiveness of our societies will grow stronger if churches and policymakers recognise the distinctive assets that they have to offer,’ added Theos. – AR O The full report and 12-page ‘How To’ guide can be downloaded from freechurches.org.uk/commission-report

COMMUNITY BARGOED Shannon Webb packed 58 boxes of items for people experiencing homelessness and others in need in the area. Everything was packed with care, sanitised and donated to the corps for distribution.

This is the second year that Shannon has helped in this way. She is pictured with playgroup member Pamela Jenkins. – LC

CORPS

CLOWNE More than 70 Messy Church Little Brown Bags were delivered to homes to keep contact with families unable to attend due to coronavirus restrictions. Each bag contained Christmas-themed craft materials with instructions and a Kids Alive! comic. Families also took part in a virtual Nativity video, which was co-ordinated by Messy Church team leader Peta Coates and edited by Joe Rose (Regent Hall). – GH

CHRISTCHURCH To celebrate the beginning of Advent, corps officer Major Teresa Everett visited corps members on their doorsteps. Everyone was given a sparkler and made circle shapes in the air with the light while prayers were said to welcome the light of God’s presence to encircle them.

It was a significant symbolic act of worship as they are not able to gather together. – AR 6

Salvationist 2 January 2021

OUTREACH UKI Members of the Music and Creative Arts Unit, Stephanie Lamplough, Paul Sharman and Nik King, collaborated to produce No Zoom at the Inn!, a virtual Nativity play. Stephanie wrote the script and lyrics, Paul composed the music and Nik was responsible for the orchestration and backing tracks. Sixty-eight children from across the territory took part after responding to a Facebook advert inviting people to get involved. A cast of young people also filmed the acting scenes. The production is available to watch on the Music and Creative Arts YouTube channel. – AR ABERTILLERY Although unofficered, the corps maintained its food parcel distribution for Christmas. Songster Nora Blanchard and her daughter, Lisa, undertook the task of making up 100 packages, which included the Christmas edition of the War Cry, for distribution by social services. There was also a generous response to the toy appeal, with donated toys distributed by social services. – AB

COMMUNITY NORTHERN IRELAND First minister Arlene Foster and deputy first minister Michelle O’Neill lent their support to The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Christmas Family Appeal, which has helped struggling families celebrate Christmas for 40 years. Ms Foster said: ‘I am delighted to be able to help launch this year’s Family Appeal. Christmas is a time of giving, of sharing and helping others, and this has never been more important.’ – AR

ANNIVERSARY

MARKET RASEN After risk assessments were approved by DHQ, the corps returned to an almost normal programme in September. Its anniversary was celebrated just before the second lockdown began in November. Come On and Celebrate was the theme of the meeting, which included recorded music by the International Staff Band and International Staff Songsters. – TC

INTERNATIONAL

Salvation Army alumnus wins social venture prize LIBERIA

NEWS IN BRIEF DUNSTABLE The over-75 club hasn’t been able to meet since March last year, but leader Elsie Haldane has kept in touch with its members, phoning them each week and, on occasions, seeing them on their doorsteps at a safe distance. John, a widower living on his own, also received the corps newsletter and worship resources every week during lockdown. He expressed his gratitude to the corps, saying that he would have given up on life if it had not been for the Army. – SB UKI The Salvation Army and 16 partner organisations have written to the economic secretary to the Treasury calling for universal credit advance payments to be included in the government’s debt respite scheme. While the government has indicated that it is planning to include advance payments in the scheme, they will be included on a ‘phased basis’ due to IT constraints, and no specific timeframe has been given. The Army is concerned that a significant delay would push thousands into debt. – AR

MEETING A family enjoys crafts at Bridgwater’s Covid-secure family church Christmas meeting

FUNDRAISING

GLOUCESTER A fundraising scheme for building alterations to the hall offered takeaway lunches, raising more than £350. The hall was set up for social distancing so that picking up lunch bags was safe and easy. They included Advent candles and a booklet called The True Light. – AB

THOMAS Guwor, a former pupil of the William Booth High School in Monrovia, achieved third place in the 10th annual Africa and Middle East Social Venture grand prix.

At a virtual awards ceremony during the Africa Tech festival, Thomas was awarded a prize on behalf of his company, Weeglo, for innovation in e-learning software.

The platform has been successfully piloted across Salvation Army schools in Liberia, making it possible to continue providing learning opportunities to thousands of students during the country’s Covid-19 lockdown.

Founded in 2019, Weeglo enables schools to deliver education remotely, including classroom activities, online testing, live video meetings, teaching and more. It allows students, teachers, administrators, educators and parents to interact and access digital resources and ebooks.

Director of Education David Massaquoi (Liberia and Sierra Leone Command) said: ‘We warmly congratulate Thomas for his well-earned win. We are extremely proud of his success story and contribution to education. The Salvation Army commends him for giving back to our school system and the Liberian education sector during these times of tremendous need.’ – AR Salvationist 2 January 2021

7

Prayer MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER – LIVING IN GOD’S COVENANT

by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development) FRIDAY 1 JANUARY – ISAIAH 43:18 and 19 Lord God, as we come before you in prayer on this first day of a new year, help us to perceive the new thing you are doing; to listen, to understand and be willing to participate. May we seek to let go of past fears and embrace new possibilities, guided by your Holy Spirit and strengthened by your grace.

COMMUNITY MARKET RASEN After enquiring about the work The Salvation Army was doing for children leading up to Christmas, Charlotte Spindley and her children, Caleb and Keira, decided they wanted to help. They put together gift parcels and donated them to the corps for distribution. Caleb and Keira are pictured with corps leader Territorial Envoy Terry Carpenter. – AR

SATURDAY 2 JANUARY – ISAIAH 43:19 ‘God will make a way where there seems to be no way’ is a line from a song (SASB 492) that reflects God’s enabling power and encourages us to trust him. In Scripture the wilderness is often a place of encounter with God and his transforming power. God is present with us in the darkest circumstances and the deepest sorrows. As you pray today, place your situation in God’s hands and resolve to move forward in faith.

SUNDAY 3 JANUARY On this first Sunday of the new year, whether you are praying at home or able to gather with other people, the territory’s theme for this season is ‘Moving Forward Together – Living in God’s Covenant’. May we each encounter the presence of God this day, praising and thanking him that he calls us into covenant relationship with him and with each other. Pray for those with whom you worship regularly. Perhaps you could send a message this week to one or two people to let them know they are in your prayers.

MONDAY 4 JANUARY – GENESIS 8:22 Isn’t it amazing that God our creator invites us to partner him in the agreement known as covenant? God’s creative, sustaining and redemptive acts are promised to us, his people. In Genesis 9:8–17 God establishes his covenant, through Noah, with all life on Earth. Let us consider this day how God’s covenant has been fulfilled to his creation unconditionally. God keeps his word.

TUESDAY 5 JANUARY The first covenant in Scripture that God made with Noah and for all generations to come is symbolised by the rainbow. These days we know that a rainbow can be explained scientifically as reflected and refracted sunlight shining through water droplets to create a spectrum. We may understand this meteorological phenomenon more than Noah did but we still cannot create a rainbow. Take time in prayer to recognise God’s gifts to us in creation and our response to his covenant as stewards of his provision.

CIRENCESTER Having been unable to play together since March, six socially distanced members of the band played carols in the centre of Tetbury. In addition to an audience queueing at the post office, several passers-by stopped to show their appreciation.

– MG

OUTREACH

WEDNESDAY 6 JANUARY Many words are used to define a covenant – agreement, bond and contract are among them.

The Hebrew word used in Scripture meaning ‘to seal a covenant’ literally translates as ‘to cut’.

In Genesis 15 God revealed himself to Abraham and promised to make him the father of a great nation. His descendants would eventually inhabit the land of Israel. God instructed Abraham to prepare animal sacrifices and arrange them in a particular way. Heavenly fire passed between the cut pieces of flesh, sealing the covenant that God was making with Abraham. A spiritual relationship was sealed in a practical way, although it would be many years before God’s promises were fulfilled. Let this prompt us to pray for patience and faith in God’s promises to us.

THURSDAY 7 JANUARY ‘Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord was pleased with him.’ (Genesis 15:6 Contemporary English Version). One week into 2021 – how are you doing with keeping any new year’s resolutions? We can make ourselves all kinds of promises and write long lists of good intentions as a new year approaches. On the one hand, it is good to believe that significant change is possible; on the other, we may place unrealistic expectations upon ourselves. When God revealed to Abraham how his life would unfold, his response was incredulity – and many questions! Through listening to the Lord and believing him, Abraham saw God’s will realised. May our prayer be, ‘O for a deeper, O for a greater, O for a perfect trust in the Lord.’

FRIDAY 8 JANUARY Unlike the covenants made with Noah and Abraham, God’s covenant with Moses and the Israelites was conditional. Speaking to Moses, their leader on Mount Sinai, God made an agreement to protect them if they kept his Law and were faithful to him. If Israel was obedient, then God would bless them; but if they disobeyed, God would punish them. This covenant set the nation apart from all others as God’s chosen people. At that time the response was ‘We will do everything the Lord has said’ (Exodus 19:8). The surrounding nations would know that they worshipped Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God. Pray that your life is a witness to the Lord who keeps his promises.

Birmingham Citadel’s display window provides a light in the darkness for passers-by 8

Salvationist 2 January 2021

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources

Salvationist215 November December 2020 2020 Salvationist

23 7

MORE REAR-M MIR RRO OR Adjutant and e Mrs Clifford Boyc

THE AYR REVIVAL General John Larsson (Retired) shares fascinating glimpses of the early Army

I

N December 1907 the corps in Ayr, Scotland, experienced the beginning of a revival that was to prove of awesome magnitude. As with all such spiritual awakenings there was no accounting for why it happened. ‘The wind blows wherever it pleases,’ said Jesus to Nicodemus (John 3:8). And for two full years the wind of the Spirit blew at gale force in Ayr. The pleasant and comfortable seaside town was an unlikely location for what took place. But in its poorer parts Ayr had an underside of hooligan and criminal elements, and these were the people who were reached by the revival.

The unassuming corps officer was also an unlikely catalyst for the titanic events over which he would preside.

Adjutant Clifford Boyce, a converted drunkard and gambler, was no great charismatic figure and as a preacher was no ‘son of thunder’. But he cared deeply for the lost and his messages throughout were on the love of God. Boyce recalled when he and his wife took charge of the small corps at Ayr in November 1907: ‘I felt, in looking upon the soldiers, that I was looking upon disappointed people. And I made up my mind to try and help them. Two or three good holiness meetings and a half-night of prayer followed, and then we started Saturday midnight [pub] raids. Praise the Lord! The revival had begun.’

The first convert from these December raids was Peter, who had just been released after eight months in prison, and he was soon followed by his wife, brother and two sisters. During the next weeks they were succeeded by more, and then by many more.

The astonishing nature of what was happening in Ayr was revealed to the

world when the War Cry of 25 January 1908 announced that by then 659 people had found salvation.

David Armistead picks up the story in his book, All Glory tae God: ‘Whereas eight weeks earlier Boyce had led open-air meetings with just 10 soldiers, now he did with 165, and the average indoor attendances had risen from 724 to 4,860 in the same period. Night after night the previous week there had been an astonishing number of seekers at the mercy seat – on Monday, 51; Tuesday, 62; Wednesday, 51; Thursday, 26, Friday, 38. Drunks cried for salvation and then, having found what they were seeking, went on marches to win others – a practice that pleased the authorities because prior to the revival some 16 inebriates were regularly locked up by the police on Saturday night, and now there was only one.’

On Saturday evenings three meetings were conducted consecutively at the Army hall and on Sundays the meetings were held in the town hall. The number of those being saved continued to increase. The numbers rose steadily, first to 700, then 800, then 900, then 1,000. The 1,000th convert was one of the biggest drunkards in Ayr and had come out of prison that morning. And more were to follow.

When the commissioner for Scotland, Commissioner Ulysse Cosandey, visited he enrolled 200 red-guernseyed soldiers.

Colonel William Eadie, the chief secretary at the time, recorded his impression after spending a weekend at the corps: ‘This is not a revival, it is raising the dead. There is no emotion in this movement: the people are not weeping or laughing or singing themselves into frenzy, they are cool

and deliberate. I have seen 58 persons walk out to the mercy seat this weekend in a way I have never witnessed in all my life before. They came in exactly the same fashion that folks go into a shop to purchase goods. At the penitent form they had to be taught how to pray, never having prayed before; but they have got up from their knees with a clear assurance of forgiveness.’

When William Booth visited Ayr during his 1908 motor tour, the governor of the local prison was accompanied on the platform by 30 of his former charges, every one in an Army guernsey.

A year after the beginning of the revival the number of new soldiers had risen to 300. After two years, almost 2,500 conversions had been registered with many more soldiers being added.

How and why such mighty movements of the Spirit happen remains a mystery.

The wind of the Spirit does indeed blow wherever it pleases. One can only stand in awe and exclaim, ‘All glory tae God!’

Adjutant Boyce with the first 29 of several hundred new soldiers enrolled at Ayr Salvationist 2 January 2021

9

NEWS FEATURE

Enabled members join together for online Christmas fellowship

Amy joins in singing at the carol service

Godly Play Nativity

Caroline joins in music activities

Diane sings in the choral session

UKI BUILDING on the success of the Enabled Summer School at Home earlier this year, we decided to host Enabled at Christmas, writes Chris Stringer, Learning Disabilities Inclusion Development Manager (THQ).

Addressing isolation and loneliness has been a key aim throughout the pandemic, so the idea was to offer Enabled members a variety of activities to replace cancelled Christmas events.

Thanks to the many people who volunteered their time to facilitate, we were able to offer 15 separate sessions, many of which were led by Enabled members.

Hosted using Facebook Live and YouTube, nearly 200 people participated in a weekend programme packed with music, Godly Play, poetry, fitness, lively worship, crafts and more.

The sessions received more than 6,000 views, and members shared photos and clips on Facebook and in WhatsApp groups, as well as communicating by liking and sharing comments.

During the welcome Sue Blagden from 10

Salvationist 2 January 2021

Southport was announced as the winner of the Christmas card design competition.

Delegates also enjoyed a Christmas Music Man session hosted by David Stanley (Leigh-on-Sea). Highlights included ‘12 Days of Christmas’, which involved lots of actions and instruments, and ‘Open Your Eyes to Jesus’, a song written by David Stanley and Stuart Croot.

On Saturday carol singing reminded everyone of the real meaning of Christmas.

Members were shown how to make Christmas cards using an ink pad and their fingertips, and Major Barbara Davies brought the Rocking Chair Experience, a series of exercises that could be performed while sitting in a chair.

In a music session Enabled member Chris Wren-Kirkham (Sutton) played the drums while his dad played the keyboard. The festive tunes were a real success with more than 1,000 views.

Zena Osterberg (Hadleigh Temple) taught delegates how to play the timbrel to ‘Jesus, What a Wonderful Child’ by the Times Square Church, before Tristan Lanceley (Bromley Temple) played some

Alan plays along in music activities

Father Christmas shares a seasonal message joyful music and Amanda-Jayne Lanceley (Bromley Temple) read some of her poetry.

This was another popular session with more than 1,100 views.

An open house run by Lieut-Colonels Angela and Ray Irving included a quiz, some Christmas cracker jokes and a discussion about Christmas films.

Sunday’s activities included Godly Play and a powerful telling of the Nativity story.

Following a series of warm-ups in a choral session, participants performed a wonderful new carol, ‘The Shepherds’ Song’.

In a drama session led by Sarah Grace, improvisation exercises were performed.

Debbie Charles later taught delegates how to sign Makaton to ‘Away in a Manger’.

They then had the opportunity to view the Nativity in Makaton.

Christmas with the Fullers included Enabled member Ben Fuller playing carols on his keyboard. The family shared some poetry and taught everyone a song they’d composed. Ben’s sister led participants in Penguin Cokey and his nephews shared an animated Nativity story.

The weekend closed with a carol service

Fun with the Fullers Samuel and family enjoy the carol service

led by territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill. They sang carols and shared Bible readings, a thought and prayers. Stuart Miskin (Worksop) compiled and broadcast a collection of highlights from the weekend.

Enabled at Christmas provided a real opportunity for members to share in fellowship and experiences. It was a wonderful weekend and lifted the spirits of many.

Here are thoughts of some of those who took part:

RACHEL RHODES

Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls Enabled at Christmas has truly been a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas. We had fun, laughter and Christian fellowship throughout the weekend. We shared in music and poetry, drama, timbrels, choral and craft, as well as being entertained by Barbara’s unique keep fit and the Fuller family. We have also learnt some Makaton and, of course, shared in worship and times of reflection. At the centre of it all has

Ben prepares for Timbreltastic

Sharon shows her work in the cardmaking session

always been Christ, the true meaning of the season. The weekend ended in style with our territorial leaders leading us in our carol service, which was a fitting end to a marvellous weekend. It made Christmas 2020 one to be remembered for all the right reasons!

ELAINE DORAN

Hoyland Common Another great event filled with fun, joy and laughter! Thank you to everyone involved in creating a fantastic weekend.

KATHLEEN GOODSON

Dunstable What a wonderful Christmas programme!

I really enjoyed the whole weekend. The highlight for me was the carol service with Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill.

Watford Due to coronavirus I have been unable to attend my corps, so I have been watching church services on TV to compensate. It was lovely that Enabled was placed online so that we could join together. Thank you for a wonderful weekend.

LISSA HERMANS

HELEN AND STEPHEN BIRCHALL

TRUDY DENHAM

Enfield Thank you so much for giving us all such a special time of fellowship and worship. We really enjoyed sharing with our Enabled friends. It lifted our spirits.

AMANDA-JAYNE AND TRISTAN LANCELEY

Bromley Temple Thank you everyone for a wonderful weekend. It’s been fantastic.

Sunderland Millfield We have both been richly blessed. Thank you to everyone who put together the sessions for us to enjoy.

SANDRA ATKINSON

Gateshead I had a fabulous weekend with Enabled at Christmas. I loved everyone’s contributions and every video and live session cheered me up and helped to make Christmas really special.

Salvationist 2 January 2021

11

2021 events Vision and Commitment Sunday 3 January Launch of Self-Denial Appeal 7 February

January S 3

M 4

T 5

W 6

February

T 7

F

S

1

2

8

9

S 7

M

T

W

T

F

S

1

2

3

4

5

6

8

9

10 11 12 13

Ash Wednesday 17 February

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Self-Denial Altar Service 7 March

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

28

31

Mothering Sunday 14 March Palm Sunday 28 March Good Friday 2 April Easter Day 4 April Musical Theatre Day 1 May

June

May S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

1 4

5

6

7

8

6

7

T

W

T

F

S

1

2

3

4

5

8

9

10 11 12

2

3

9

10 11 12 13 14 15

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

27 28 29 30

30 31 Ascension Day 13 May Candidates Sunday 16 May Pentecost Sunday 23 May

September S 5

M 6

T 7

October

W

T

F

S

1

2

3

4

8

9

10 11

S 3

M 4

T 5

W 6

T 7

F

S

1

2

8

9

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

26 27 28 29 30

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

s calendar March S

April S

M

T

W

T

F

S

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

14

15 16 17 18 19 20

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

21

22 23 24 25 26 27

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

28

29 30 31

25 26 27 28 29 30

4

M 5

T 6

W

Symphony Sounds 5 June

7

T

F

S

1

2

3

8

9

10

Father’s Day 20 June Women and God Weekend 25 – 27 June Founders’ Day 2 July Commissioning 10 July

July S

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

1

2

3

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

8

9

10 11 12 13

14

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

15 16 17 18 19 20

21

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

22 23 24 25 26 27

28

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

29 30 31

5

6

W

August

T

4

M

Territorial Music School 24 – 31 July

7

November S

Remembrance Sunday 14 November

M

T

W

T

F

S

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

14

15 16 17 18 19 20

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

21

22 23 24 25 26 27

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

28

29 30

26 27 28 29 30 31

5

M 6

T 7

The Big Collection 14 August – 11 September (Ireland) 1 – 30 September (Great Britain) Welcome to new officer cadets 25 and 26 September

December S

Corps officers’ welcome Sunday 25 July

W

T

F

S

1

2

3

4

8

9

10 11

Territorial Carol Concert 8 December

ON MY BOOKSHELF

Helping me reflect on my faith Many people have revealed their bookshelves on video calls in recent months. Salvationist asked a number of people to tell us about books on their bookshelf – this week, Captain Megan Kervin (Bishop’s Stortford)

A

S a child I was a bookworm – I loved reading! But by my teens I barely opened books, unless I was hoping to stumble upon some appropriate quotes for an essay.

Appointed to Bishop’s Stortford in 2014, I discovered the corps ran a book club – not where everyone reads the same thing, but where they bring and share whatever book they’ve been reading. Although the homemade cakes were reason enough to attend, I did feel as though I should at least try to read a book – and now I’m hooked again.

We have about 750 books on our shelves, but I wish to tell you about just two authors and a devotional book that have had the greatest impact.

Francine Rivers is an American author who writes Christian novels. The first book of hers I was introduced to was A Lineage of Grace. It features five women from the lineage of Jesus: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba and Mary. The author seeks to present their stories as messages of hope, faith, love, unlimited grace and obedience.

I enjoyed the way that Rivers helped these women come alive through the 14

Salvationist 2 January 2021

building up of action and dialogue around the original biblical accounts.

This is a work of historical fiction, but the Bible studies that are included help you return to the original Scripture passages and explore the truths found there.

I then read The Atonement Child. The book is described as ‘deeply moving and controversial’ as it deals with rape, pregnancy and abortion. Although it is a challenging read, Rivers wrote it somewhat from a place of experience. I think my appreciation when reading this book was that it gave me a safe place in which to explore my own thoughts, feelings and understanding about a sensitive subject that many women, and men, face in their day-to-day lives.

During lockdown I read Redeeming Love, the novel for which Rivers is best known. It is based on the story of Hosea but has been reworked to be set during the California gold rush of the 1850s. Again, it may not be an easy read, as the main theme is prostitution, but I was gripped from beginning to end. As with all the author’s writing it caused me to reflect upon my own faith

and outlook. It challenged my understanding of the role we play in others coming to faith, making sure we don’t get in the way of Jesus.

A book I was gifted that blesses me regularly is Breathe by Charlotte Gambill. The 365-day devotional book encourages readers to inhale a deep breath of God’s word on one day and then exhale what it means through reflection the next. The book is really good for me, as I enjoy being able to work out God’s word in the everyday and being accountable to those interpretations. Additionally, because it has page numbers instead of dates, it is good for those of us who have a tendency to fall behind or swap and change devotional material – I can literally pick it up where I left off, even months later.

Finally, another author I come back to often is Cathy Glass, a British author and foster carer who has written her memoirs. These books aren’t to be taken lightly, as the experiences of some of the children she has cared for are not easy to read. I return to them for two reasons. First, before entering officer training, I worked in children’s homes and have always had a passion to help children who aren’t getting the start in life they deserve. Second, to remind myself that people are still enduring horrific circumstances and that the words of William Booth’s ‘I’ll fight’ speech are still relevant today.

I have read four of Glass’s books and recently purchased two more from charity shops. Discovering the lives of these children is enough to stir my passion to fight injustice and bring the light and love of Christ to all who need them.

g

INTERVIEW

Tr

iben

i Gurun

Investing in justice International Projects Office Team Leader Ben Gilbert continues a series exploring the UKI Territory’s international development work by discussing gender justice with International Projects Adviser Tribeni Gurung Bangladesh

Y

OU only have to pick up a newspaper to see that there are forms of gender violence everywhere. But what is it exactly? And how do we help stop it? Tribeni Gurung unpacks the theme of gender justice.

WHAT DOES GENDER JUSTICE MEAN FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT? Over the years, The Salvation Army has recognised that gender justice is part of a wider global inequality and social justice issue. The International Projects Office supports projects that address gender violence, such as domestic or intimate partner violence, female genital mutilation, early child marriage and the exploitation of women in the sex trade.

Violence seems as if it always has been and will be present, so there must be systems in place to prevent or limit it. Gender justice involves working with men, women, boys and girls to find solutions to gender violence globally as well as in communities.

WHY DOES THE ARMY INVEST RESOURCES IN GENDER JUSTICE? We need to invest in this area so that everyone can have equal lifetime opportunities, which will ultimately lead to stronger integrated communities. It’s a complex issue and can also be quite

sensitive. We need to make sure that our project work is addressing the root causes and not just the expressions of violence.

WHAT FORMS DO THESE EXPRESSIONS TAKE? We usually find this is violence against women and girls, which is carried out by individuals or through communities and institutions. It can be formal and informal.

Gender-based violence is usually a result of power inequalities stemming from gender roles. It can be harmful to a woman’s physical, emotional, psychological and social wellbeing throughout her life.

In the communities where we work, there are violations of women’s human rights. These have negative impacts on their ability to participate in, contribute to and benefit from development. In these communities, gender inequality comes from patriarchy or male dominance through the gender norms and values present in society.

WHAT KIND OF PROJECTS IS THE TERRITORY SUPPORTING? We are currently working with a gender framework, which has two aspects. The first is gender mainstreaming, which involves integrating gender equality into

all our projects. The second aspect is addressing gender-based violence, which is mainly in communities that have been negatively impacted by the issue.

In Argentina, for instance, we are working in partnership with a local court to run a group therapy programme for women who have experienced domestic violence. Part of this programme includes working with children to prevent them from learning violent responses.

In Bangladesh we have an outreach programme for women trafficked into brothels for sexual exploitation. We are empowering these women by educating them on their rights and gender equality.

We’re also educating local communities on gender justice issues in the hope of reducing stigma and ignorance around sexually exploited and trafficked women.

Next week…

Jason Emmett talks about emergency response

O Episodes of the Develop podcast are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud and Google Podcasts O Find more information and resources at salvationarmy.org.uk/internationaldevelopment

Salvationist 2 January 2021

15

BIBLE STUDY

Living in God’s covenant Major Steve Dutfield considers the renewing of promises

NEHEMIAH 9:1–38

I

T is the beginning of a new year, traditionally the time when some of us will be challenging ourselves by making new year’s resolutions. A year ago, I wonder how many of us resolved to spend more time in quietness and solitude, never expecting that circumstances would lead us to do exactly that.

How many of us would have imagined that a gentle stroll in the garden would lead to nearly £40 million being raised by a centenarian in a Bedfordshire village? Captain Sir Tom Moore has since published his autobiography.

Reading this story of a very ordinary man, I was struck by the importance he placed on being committed to his walk, a reflection of his willingness to stick to commitments made even through the difficult periods of his life.

Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day

by Major Howard Webber

16

Salvationist 2 January 2021

QUESTIONS O Think about commitments you have made. Have they been easy to keep?

O Why or why not?

O How about in difficult times?

The children of Israel have become renowned as a people who had known the presence of God with them through thick and thin. Summaries of their story are found throughout the pages of Scripture, one example of which is the edited highlights we find in Nehemiah 9.

This record has great high points as we read about God calling Abram out of Ur, renaming him Abraham and making a covenant with him to give his descendants a new land (see vv7 and 8). We also read how God saw their suffering in Egypt and led them out of captivity, and we note how God gave them kingdoms and nations.

It seemed as if they had it made. God’s presence, evident in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, was clearly with them. God had kept his covenant promises.

However, Nehemiah knew everything was not right in their relationship with God: ‘They, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands … They were disobedient and rebelled against you; they turned their backs on your Law … As soon as they were at rest, they again did what was evil in your sight’ (vv16, 26–28).

Something had to be done about this awful situation and so ‘they stood in their places and confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors’ (v2).

But it seemed that this was not enough.

Their desire to live in covenant relationship needed to be confirmed.

After this great list of their failings,

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

O Jesus, I have promised/ To serve thee to the end,/ Be thou for ever near me,/ My Master and my friend./ I shall not fear the battle/ If thou art by my side,/ Nor wander from the pathway/ If thou wilt be my guide.

(SASB 613)

‘Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honour the one who serves me.’ ( John 12:26)

Am I what once I was?/ Have I that ground maintained/ Wherein I walked in power with thee,/ And thou my soul sustained?/ Have I a truthful heart,/ A conscience keen to feel/ The baseness of a false excuse,/ The touch of aught unreal?

(SASB 697)

Prayer Father God, what do you see in me? Have I the love for you, the focus and zeal for you I once had? Or do I disappoint and grieve you? Show me, Lord, even though it may be painful, and relight that fire in me as I renew my promises to you.

amid the goodness of God, there is an interesting development: ‘In view of all this, we are making a binding agreement, putting it in writing’ (v38).

Chapter 10 gives us an account of the covenant to which they will bind themselves. While acknowledging that some of the promises may seem a little strange to our 21st-century ears, we can nevertheless appreciate the significance of this written, signed declaration of intent.

QUESTIONS O What promises have you made?

O Have you signed any covenants?

O What was their significance?

Sadly, as we know, the people were not so good at keeping their side of the covenant. In fact, it is a mere three chapters before we read of them

neglecting the promises made. How many of us envy the thankless task Nehemiah had as he strove to lead them?

Even in the face of this, he knew that keeping his covenant was the right thing to do. In chapter 13 Nehemiah asks God three times to remember him, reminding God of his faithfulness (see v14), asking God for mercy (see v22) and seeking his favour (see v31). Indicating his qualities as a leader, Nehemiah asks God to remember those who had not followed the covenant to which they had committed themselves.

Captain Tom’s autobiography is titled Tomorrow Will Be a Good Day. While I understand the optimism of those words, the reality for people who have experienced significant illness, whose jobs and livelihood hang by a thread, is that tomorrow may not be a good day.

QUESTION O Why might living in a covenant relationship with God help to make the future good?

As we remember promises made, and maybe even written covenants signed, we can join with Nehemiah in asking God to remember us with favour. Maybe then, living in the assurance of God’s forgiveness and with his presence to help us, tomorrow will be a good day.

MAJOR DUTFIELD IS DIVISIONAL LEADER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT, NORTH SCOTLAND

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself.

(2 Timothy 2:11–13)

While I speak to thee,/ Lord, thy goodness show;/ Am I what I ought to be?/ O Saviour, let me know./ O Lord, if I am wrong,/ I will not grieve thee more/ By doubting thy great love and power/ To make and keep me pure.

(SASB 697)

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.

(Psalm 37:4 and 5)

By the love that never ceased to hold me/ In a bond nor life nor death shall break,/ As thy presence and thy power enfold me,/ I would plead fresh covenant to make./ From before thy face, each vow renewing,/ Strong in heart, with purpose pure and deep,/ I will go henceforth thy will pursuing,/ With my Lord unbroken faith to keep.

(SASB 634)

Salvationist 2 January 2021

17

VIEW POINT

Are we good neighbours?

Enabled member Annmarie Batty shares an experience that made her think about how Jesus treated people

V

ENTURING out to the shops during lockdown I obtained what I needed quicker than usual, except for some fish.

I had 30 minutes to wait before the fishmonger’s van was due.

Prior to lockdown I could have found a café to wait in, but now they were closed. At the T-junction where the van normally would park I tried to lean against a wall, but my knees and back were becoming painful. If I’d persisted I might have fallen over. I had the option of giving up the idea of fresh fish for the week or sitting down to wait. I decided to sit down – on the pavement.

Near where I sat there used to be a raised flowerbed, but because drug users had made it a gathering point, it had been removed.

As I sat on the ground with my two bags of shopping beside me, it quickly became apparent that passers-by thought I was someone to be avoided. About 40 people passed by me, all making sure they did so on the other side of the road.

Three people did stop to talk to me, however, and only afterwards I realised that they had to go out of their way to turn into the street where I sat.

The first was a dog walker, who came and asked if I was all right. When I said ‘OK’, he asked a second time. I explained my circumstances and he and his dog continued on their way.

A little later an elderly woman saw me. She turned into the street, looked at my stick and orthotic shoes and asked if I’d fallen over.

Did I need any help to get up? Did I need an ambulance? Again, I explained my mobility issues and she left.

Then a young woman with her child noticed me and asked: ‘Are you all right?’ I explained my reason for sitting on the pavement and she left, saying: ‘I hope the fishmonger turns up quickly.’

A few minutes later my legs started to go numb from sitting on the floor. I thought the fishmonger must be coming soon, so I raised myself up and stood, leaning on my walking stick.

Another person came down the street and passed by on my side of the road.

How do we see people? Are we aware that in these days many people have had their circumstances changed and their coping mechanisms taken away? Support groups and activities are closed 18

Salvationist 2 January 2021

because of Covid-19 safety regulations. Those of us with disabilities are finding ordinary things such as shopping very difficult. A takeaway café is no help when you need a chair to sit on.

Sat on that pavement I felt invisible, like an untouchable.

People passed by without giving me eye contact. It made me think of the story of the good Samaritan and how people passed by the injured man.

Jesus saw people’s needs. He acknowledged individuals and treated them with dignity and respect. He recognised Zacchaeus’s loneliness. He understood the woman at the well’s desire for things to be different.

We need to open our eyes to the needs of those around us, whether they be physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. The person experiencing homelessness, the person coping with unemployment, the isolated person who hasn’t felt a human being’s touch for weeks – all these people need someone to be a good neighbour to them.

John Gowans wrote these challenging words: There are people living who would rather die.

They need you, they need me, they need Christ, And their Christian neighbours simply pass them by!

They need you, they need me, they need Christ.

There are people sitting by a silent phone, People cold and hungry, people left alone, Suicides for reasons that remain unknown.

They need you, they need me, they need Christ.

(SASB 935) Jesus said: ‘Here is my command. Love one another’ (John 15:17 New International Reader’s Version). We need to make visible the caring love of Jesus. As Salvationists in Covid days our outreach, mission and witness may have to be innovative, using bespoke methods, but it’s vital that we are there for people and that we don’t ignore those in need.

ANNMARIE IS A SOLDIER AT HULL ICEHOUSE

Wrestling with the Old Testament

BABYLONIAN BABIES BEWARE! ‘By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept’ (Psalm 137:1). The Judean exiles in Babylon had been ordered to sing ‘one of the songs of Zion’ (v3). ‘How can we sing the songs of the Lord while in a foreign land?’ (v4), they asked – and went on to create a masterpiece that has spoken to exiles and refugees in every generation since. No wonder Boney M took it to the top of the charts in 1978.

But the band didn’t sing Psalm 137 to its bitter end: ‘Daughter Babylon ...

Happy is the one who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks’ (vv8 and 9). How can you square this reaction by a conquered people with the teaching of Jesus?

The Old Testament poses a problem for Christian faith and theology, which is tackled in detail by Helen Paynter in her book, God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today? Wrestling Honestly with the Old Testament. She examines a number of Old Testament practices that modern thinking considers to be plain wrong. These include the deliberate hamstringing of horses in Joshua 11:6, the unnecessary killing of Philistines by Samson in Judges 14:19 and the utter destruction of defeated enemies and their property (herem in Hebrew) that, according to Deuteronomy 7:1–6, was directly commanded by God. SPIRITUAL EXPLANATIONS The Early Church Fathers often used allegory to give such difficult passages a spiritual interpretation. Thus the erotic passages in the Song of Songs were understood allegorically to describe the love of Christ for the soul. This thought

has inspired superb poetry, from the Spanish mystic St John of the Cross to the 17th-century Welsh writer Henry Vaughan, who wrote: ‘God’s silent, searching flight;/ When my Lord’s head is filled with dew, and all/ His locks are wet with the clear drops of night.’

These lines are based on Song of Songs 5:2, where the lover’s locks are wet because he is visiting his beloved in the dewy hours of early morning. But times have changed, and nowadays the erotic text might be taken literally. Take a look at the dishy illustrations that can be found in some editions of the Good News Bible.

So much for sex, but what about violence?

In 1984 the feminist theologian Phyllis Trible published Texts of Terror, which considered the brutal treatment of women in the Old Testament, including the grim story of the concubine in Judges 19:1–30 who is gang-raped, murdered and dismembered. But reporting need not imply approval. The compiler of Judges, a supporter of the Israelite monarchy, ends his book with the comment: ‘In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit’ (21:25). In other words, the ghastly events of Judges 19 should never have happened.

What then of violent deeds done by people claiming to obey God’s direct orders? Helen Paynter’s book tackles these most difficult passages and offers helpful suggestions about using them in church today. But are today’s Christians listening? Are they still wrestling with the Old Testament or have they stopped reading it? Are they simply picking out a few of its many inspiring passages?

Thinkalou d b y John Coutts

PROGRESS IN UNDERSTANDING The Salvation Army’s 1960 Handbook of Doctrine cautiously endorsed the idea of ‘progressive revelation’, suggesting: ‘The divine revelation contained in the Bible was given gradually, as men were able to receive it ... We believe the whole Bible to be inspired, though not necessarily all parts of it in the same way or in the same degree.’ Fair enough, although many may wonder whether the command in Deuteronomy 7 to carry out mass destruction was ever divinely inspired at all.

The idea of progressive revelation is now out of fashion, but we cannot get away from the idea of development in the ancient Hebrews’ understanding of God and his will. Take, for example, the concept of holiness. It moves from a world of terror and taboo – poor Uzzah dies when he accidentally touches the holy Ark of the Covenant in 2 Samuel 6:7 – to the great insight of Isaiah: ‘The holy God will be proved holy by his righteous acts’ (Isaiah 5:16).

Helen Paynter chooses the Hebrew concept of shalom (peace, mutual understanding, living well in God’s world) as the guiding light to lead us through the turbulent world of the Old Testament towards the coming of our Lord, the Prince of Peace. To this let’s add that the abiding message of its many books, written or compiled over long centuries, may be summed up in the call to ‘act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God’ (Micah 6:8).

JOHN IS A SOLDIER AT STIRLING Salvationist 2 January 2021

19

REVIEWS

A remarkable, unfinished story Major Martin Whybrow (Wickford with Stanford-le-Hope) reviews The Making of Captain Clinton by Keith Mitchinson

T

HIS book recounts the remarkable ministry of Minnie Clinton – later Mrs Commissioner Minnie Lamb – during her seven years as a single officer in the 1880s, using contemporary newspaper and War Cry reports. There are very few accounts of women who challenged social norms by becoming evangelists, which makes this both welcome and important.

At 17, Lieutenant Minnie was sent as second officer to South Shields, then to other supporting appointments at Eston Mines, Dundee, Partick, Perth and Paisley. On her 21st birthday she was promoted to captain and sent to Wick, where she stayed a whole year.

Minnie was expected to preach holiness and did so, later testifying that although leading many to the experience of sanctification, she did not claim it herself until her next appointment at Aberdeen.

The newspapers were surprised at the

achievements made by two ‘feeble women’ at Wick. But there was nothing feeble about Minnie. At Aberdeen, when her male treasurer intervened to deal with some raucous young men, he was firmly told, ‘I’m the captain here.’

She responded ably to pressures to maintain extremely high levels of War Cry sales, but earned an unjust rebuke from her regional leader. In trying to remedy the consequences of a breach in regulations by her predecessor, she inadvertently broke another.

Appointments at Borough, Marylebone and Battersea preceded marriage to Staff-Captain David Lamb. Although an officer for 58 years, Minnie only officially had appointments for the first seven. The reason? Only married men were given appointments. Wives were expected to manage the home and family while generally assisting their husbands.

However, Minnie went on to have a remarkable ministry in Southend. At her

funeral service in 1939, General Evangeline Booth referred to her work as having been in ‘independent spheres’. I first heard about her from my own father, who was in the funeral band that day.

A study of how Minnie subsequently fulfilled her calling would be important for those studying the historic roles of female officers. Keith Mitchinson (Southend Citadel) hinted that he may be contemplating a second volume – I hope that he does complete Minnie’s story.

O The Making of Captain Clinton is available from Amazon.co.uk priced £5.99 (plus postage and packing)

A labour of love and gratitude Staff Songster Leader Dorothy Nancekievill reviews the CD Thankful

by Gemma Hinchliffe

H

AVING heard Gemma live on many occasions, l was excited about the prospect of her solo album and am delighted by the result, as I know it was a real labour of love from all involved.

Gemma produces an exquisite sound, which is controlled, classy, sensitive and natural in equal measure. When Gemma sings, you want to listen – she has a voice that touches the soul. In this collection listeners will find sanctuary, excitement, challenge and opportunity for real reflection.

Gemma’s choice of repertoire is extremely wide, with everything from Army vocal standards – including Ray Steadman-Allen’s ‘Water’s Edge’ – classical masterpieces and epic ballads to easy listening and devotional songs.

Gemma communicates well, whatever the genre, not just because she has great technical ability and outstanding diction, but more importantly because she means every word she sings.

20

Salvationist 2 January 2021

Accompanying the CD is a well thought-out booklet, in which Gemma acknowledges the tremendous role models that have surrounded her, from family members to friends. It is touching to read her words, and a reminder to all of us to show gratitude to others.

The sound palette is varied, with Gemma ably supported by Boscombe Band, Philip Cobb, Richard Phillips, Simon Jenkins and John Ellwood. ‘They Could Not’ is particularly strong, as is an extremely impressive performance of Bruce Broughton’s ‘O Happy Day’, which, as Gemma acknowledges, is an ensemble piece with outstanding playing from all the instrumentalists. It is also lovely to hear Gemma duet with her sister, Amelia, as their voices work so well together.

It would have been particularly demanding to finalise this recording in 2020, but the production team at World of Sound deserve tremendous credit for their

skill and tenacity in producing such an excellent album.

This is a first-rate recording that you will thoroughly enjoy. I am truly thankful for Gemma’s lovely voice, dedication and authentic Christian ministry.

O Thankful is available from SP&S as a CD priced £13.95 and a download priced £9.99

Happy New Year from Shield Books!

As we embark on a new year, treat yourself to new Christian books to further inform and inspire your faith

Have you always vowed to read your Bible from cover to cover? 2021 could be your year, with a new study guide from Nigel Bovey.

Browsing the Bible gives chapter and verse on the Scriptures, with a concise overview of all 66 books.

Each entry offers supportive context, highlights significant themes and ends with a crafted prayer. Browsing the Bible can be a helpful springboard for individual study and online groups, a signpost for sermons or even a brief introduction to the Bible for new Christians who aren’t sure where to begin.

Nigel Bovey has served 41 years as a Salvation Army officer, including almost 20 years as editor of the War Cry. Browsing the Bible is his eighth title to be published.

Buy now for

£8

Would you like to enhance your prayer life? Try Prayer

by Lyndall Bywater.

What’s the point in praying? Is there a wrong way to pray? With grace and humour, Lyndall Bywater’s Prayer explores some of the big questions and tries to tackle some of the seemingly illogical bits too.

In the first instalment of the Big Questions for Small Groups series, Prayer draws on biblical wisdom and opens up questions for virtual smallgroup discussions and individual reflection.

Lyndall is a writer and speaker on prayer who has worked as part of the territory’s prayer team for most of the past two decades.

Buy now for

£3

Why not be transported back to the beginnings of The Salvation Army with In Darkest England: 130 Years On? General William Booth, Founder of The Salvation Army along with his wife Catherine, was a prolific writer. His most famous book, In Darkest England and the Way Out, was released in October 1890. In it, Booth presented detailed proposals for the reformation of social and welfare services.

The book became an immediate bestseller and was to have a longlasting impact on the work of The Salvation Army all around the world. In Darkest England: 130 Years On is a celebration of William Booth’s bestknown work, offering a range of reflections and observations on the original In Darkest England text.

Buy now for

£8

Copies are available to order from sps-shop.com, with ebooks available from amazon.co.uk

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

TRIBUTES

APPOINTED Effective 10 December 2020 O Captain Carl Wardley, additional appointment, Territorial Assurance Officer, Business Administration Service, THQ Effective 17 December O TE Sophie Read, North Devon (Bideford and Barnstaple) Effective 4 January 2021 O Lieutenant Terrence Hendy, additional appointment, Area Safeguarding Adviser, Yorkshire South with Humber Effective 7 January O TE Vicki Paling, associate officer, Nottingham Arnold (with responsibility for Nottingham Aspley)

MAJOR MARJORIE STOKES MARJORIE entered the International Training College in 1949 out of Stainforth as a member of the Standard Bearers session. After commissioning, her first corps appointments were at Portslade, Horsham with Crawley, and Westergate.

In 1953 she was appointed to the International Training College for five years. Further corps appointments followed before Marjorie was appointed as divisional secretary in Central and West Yorkshire, Southampton and South London. She then served at National Headquarters, including as assistant field secretary for women, before taking on the role of assistant senior training officer at the International Training College. Her final appointments were in finance and administration.

Marjorie retired in 1989 and soldiered at Thornton Heath where she served in different roles. The corps family loved her. She was a good friend and great encourager, always giving an uplifting word and smile to many. She enjoyed travelling on holiday with her friends to many countries and looked forward to spending Christmas each year with her family in Yorkshire.

Marjorie loved her Lord and often spoke inspiringly of the difference that Christ made to her life. Her witness to others shone brightly, leaving a lasting legacy to the many people who had the privilege of knowing her. – PW

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Golden O Bob and Madge Harland, Banbury (1 January) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Isaac Adair (80 on 12 January) O Major Brenda Austin (80 on 13 January) O Lieut-Colonel Joan Williams (85 on 14 January) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Glenys Hinchcliff, Knottingley O Pierre Herington, Watchet O Elsie Longbottom, Clowne, on 9 December O Major Eileen Miller from Castlehill care home, Inverness, on 11 December O Elizabeth Hubbell, Herne Bay, on 15 December BEREAVED O Ruth Herington, Watchet, of her son Pierre Herington O Bandsman George Longbottom and Graham Longbottom, both Clowne, of their sister Elsie Longbottom O Major David Hubbell of his wife Elizabeth Hubbell O Major Ruth Clarke of her brother Trevor Scothern O Captain Philip James, North East England DHQ, of his father Roy James O Commissioner Gillian Downer of her mother Morfwdd Downer 22

Salvationist 2 January 2021

ERNEST ROBSON, HEXHAM ERNEST was born in 1921 and was a lifelong member of Hexham Corps.

Known as ‘Uncle Ernie’, he was held in high regard by the community and was a faithful member of the corps. Ernie served as YPSM, corps treasurer and songster leader. He also played the cornet in the band and taught many young people to play an instrument.

Recognised for his outstanding service, he was nominated in 1990 to receive Maundy money from the Queen at Newcastle Cathedral.

In 2003 he was appointed honorary bailiff and steward of Hexham in recognition of his service to the town.

He married Maisie in 1944 and they enjoyed more than 50 years together before she was promoted to Glory. His daughter died in 2015.

Ernie is now in the arms of his Lord.

He leaves behind two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Home is the happy warrior! – RM WILLIAM EDWARD GRAHAM, WALLSEND WILLIAM, known as Eddie, was born in Wallsend in 1938. He linked up with The Salvation Army when he joined the Scouts and later the junior band.

After leaving school, Eddie was employed by Swan Hunter Shipbuilders as a fitter, working on some of the Royal Navy’s finest ships. He was also an instructor at Swan’s training school, sharing his knowledge, experience and sense of humour with young apprentices and teaching them all they needed to know about building ships.

Eddie married Irene in 1964 and they were blessed with two children, Andrew and Karen. He loved music and formed a popular rhythm group, New Revival, with some of the young people. The group travelled all over the country and were the resident band at the youth venue during the Army’s Butlin’s week in Bognor Regis.

His service as bandsman and songster was always important to him.

He is missed by Irene, family and friends. – KC VIOLET GREEN, CLOWNE VIOLET was a Salvationist from a young age and became No 1 on the roll at Clowne.

She was active in the corps, serving as cub scout leader, songster librarian, company guard, YP record sergeant and publications herald.

Violet regularly arrived at the hall early in the morning to prepare for coffee mornings and home league meetings.

Her dedication continued to the very end.

She was married to Wilf for 49 years until his promotion to Glory. They had one daughter, Michelle, and two grandchildren, Emily and Nathan.

Violet’s life was one of total commitment to the Lord, as witnessed by many. She is greatly missed but is now safe in the arms of Jesus. – GH ELIZABETH WAKEFIELD, BARROW-INFURNESS ELIZABETH was born in 1946. She grew up in Millom with her parents, Elizabeth and John Thompson, and older brothers, Raymond and George.

When she attended youth councils she met Bernard, who would later become her husband.

Bernard and Elizabeth moved to Barrow-in-Furness, where their children, Patricia and Lesley, were born, and soldiered at the corps. Elizabeth taught in the Sunday school and joined the songsters. Every year, they attended the Army’s Butlin’s holiday, where they met and made friends with Salvationists from around the country.

Elizabeth enjoyed her retirement years and spent many hours at corps meetings, the home league and the friendship club. She loved talking about her grandchildren, Leah and Terry.

Elizabeth was promoted to Glory on 22 October. She is greatly missed by the many people who knew and loved her, but she is now rejoicing with her eternal Father. Faithful servant, well done! – KT

SALVATIONIST

IAN BEECHAM, MALTON IAN was raised by Salvationist parents with his brothers, Dean and Martyn. He married Linda and they had three children, Craig, Davina and Neil.

A lifelong Salvationist, Ian gave his life to God, including work, family and service, and was bandmaster at Malton.

He was a visionary and always had a new project in the pipeline. However, his self-confessed best achievement was his seven grandchildren, who miss him passionately.

Ian was promoted to Glory in October just after his 70th birthday.

Well done, good and faithful servant!

Thank you for the example you were to those you met and served on your life’s journey. You were a gift to us all. – DM

ADVERTS PERSONAL COLONEL JOY COOPER Colonel Robert/Bob Cooper and family express their thanks for the many cards and kind messages of appreciation of Joy’s life and witness following her promotion to Glory after months of serious illness. We have been greatly inspired, encouraged and comforted by your support. God bless you.

Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication.

Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

ADVERTISING 020 7367 4883 advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 (option 1, option 1) subscriptions@satcol.org

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 020 7367 4500 0845 634 0101

ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – 020 7367 4883

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

ISSN 2516-5909

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

Could you be a presenter on Fortress Radio?

Fortress Radio is a unique volunteer-led broadcasting station dedicated to playing the best of Salvation Army music, and there are lots of opportunities to get involved in 2021.

You could be the next new presenter with your own show or be part of the production team producing live and pre-recorded programmes.

No previous experience is required, only a keen desire – through the message of music – to bring comfort, provide harmony to the soul and blessings to all who receive the message of God’s love through music.

All roles are voluntary. Full training will be provided provided. Register your interest rest and tell us a little about yourself ut you elf in a an email: ail:

stuart.hall@fortressradio.online stu tre ine

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies

CONTACT SALVATIONIST 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Find Salvationist on Facebook SalvationistOnline Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

Salvationist 2 January 2021

23

‘‘‘ All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army.

We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves.

This week…

LYNN LEACH Darlington How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I attended Sunday school at the age of seven and continued with timbrels and other activities until my late teens. I left, but returned to Darlington in 2014.

What made you want to become a soldier?

After bereavement I felt that I needed to come back to the Army. Now I have God’s presence in my life and have grown in faith. I have hope and continue with God’s love.

What do you do in retirement?

I am helping with God’s work at the corps.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would change ladies’ blouses to shirts, with a choice of long or short sleeves.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

Visiting relatives, or coach holidays.

If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play?

Mrs Doubtfire. I would play Robin Williams’s character.

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

Alexander Fleming, who saved lives with his discovery of penicillin.

If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be?

The best things in life come with patience.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?

Time – I never seem to have enough.

O Master, grant that I may never seek So much to be consoled as to console, To be understood, as to understand, To be loved, as to love with all my soul (SASB B 608)

What is your favourite food?

I have a sweet tooth, so any dessert!

What do you do in your spare time?

I sew, knit and complete new craft challenges.

If you could invent a gadget, what would it be?

A replacement for batteries.

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned?

Laughter in the Rain, a 45 RPM record of Neil Sedaka, released in 1974.

What is your favourite Bible verse? ‘“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”’ (Jeremiah 29:11). In 2013 I had no plans for my life, so this is my favourite verse.

Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them?

Moses. I’d ask whether, in hindsight, he would have done anything differently so that he could have entered the Promised Land.

If you had to be handcuffed to one person for a day, who would it be?

Harrison Ford.

Is there something about life or the world you’ve never understood?

Politics.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

Cancer.

If you had a ‘theme song’ that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be?

The theme tune for the Hovis bread commercial: Largo from Symphony No 9 in E minor (From the New World) by Antonín Dvoȱák.

’’’

Did you have a nickname growing up?

Through senior school I was called ‘Darkey’. I and another pupil in my class had identical names and I was the one with dark hair.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘Make Me a Channel of Your Peace’ (SASB 608).

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Always tell the truth.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

Music. It reaches out to us in all sorts of ways, even more so in lockdown.

Something interesting you might want people to know about you is…

While on holiday in Mallorca, Frank Carson was staying at my hotel. He was a joy to meet!

Gold Hill, the scene of the Hovis advert